Image courtesy Pixabay.

Recognition days, weeks and months are important reminders for breaking us out of our busy routines to reflect on, express gratitude or do something for people and causes essential to our community, our country and even our world. 

In May, attention turns to teachers and the Education Foundation of Sarasota County is grateful that so many people recognize and celebrate teachers and the essential role they play in the lives of their students and in our community. We are honored to support and highlight teachers all year long.  

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—relationships matter. Most of us can easily recall someone in our own lives who made a difference and we understand keenly that the power of a single trusting and caring adult supporting and uplifting a student cannot be overstated.     

The best teachers nourish each and every student. In K–12 classrooms across the district, teachers encourage their students to find their voices and take risks. They revel in the back and forth between student and teacher as questions are posed, claims are defended, and learning happens. In doing this, they model ownership of the material, respect, citizenship, and critical thinking.

Sarasota County is lucky to have so many great teachers committed to fostering classrooms that unite students and help them all realize their full potential. And the Education Foundation is honored to support, celebrate, and highlight these teachers every day.

This past week, thanks to generous donors, we held a teacher appreciation raffle. Each day, we gave away as many as 50 prizes to teachers across the county. We are grateful to everyone who provided gifts for this raffle. Each gift is a token of the deep appreciation the community has for teachers.

In addition to the raffle, in newspaper ads and through social media, we’ve asked the community to share stories about teachers who have made a difference. It is so heartening to hear parents share their appreciation of the role teachers play in the lives of their children.

One parent wrote of Cranberry Elementary School teacher Jessica Meritz, “She does a wonderful job with my daughter who just moved states!” Moving can be so stressful for kids, and having a caring teaching makes all the difference. Of Meritz, another parent wrote, “She’s absolutely amazing! …She’s wonderful and kind and makes learning fun and easy.”

Of Heron Creek Middle School teacher Alyssa Rotondo, a parent wrote: “Teaching math to reluctant students can be challenging. She rises to the challenges every single day.” 

And a parent wrote of Venice High School social studies teacher Jo-ann Kerpchar: “You are a hero to our kiddos and we appreciate you!!”

Teachers are heroes. Their dedication, compassion and passion make all the difference in the lives of so many students.

Teachers, on behalf of the Education Foundation’s board of directors and our team, thank you for all you do. You keep our community thriving. And thank you to our community for recognizing and celebrating the essential role teachers play in Sarasota County.

Jennifer Vigne is president and CEO of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County.

Image courtesy Pixabay.